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Bone Scan

A bone scan involves injecting a small amount of a radioactive substance that attaches to the bones. This scan helps detect, or further examine, bone and joint problems sooner than other imaging studies. Images are then taken in what is called a “planar” format. 

Your doctor may order it to look for a variety of bone problems, such as:

  • Areas of abnormal joint activity in inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Bone metastases (cancer in the bone that has spread from a primary cancer).
  • Fractures and stress fractures.
  • Osteomyelitis (bone infection).

A bone scan can also be combined with SPECT/CT imaging, a “SPECT” scan is combined with a non-diagnostic “CT” scan to help localize an area of abnormal activity that may be present on the planar bone scan image. This is usually performed towards the end of the second appointment.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

  • Please notify your technologist if there is a chance you may be pregnant, or if you are nursing. If you are pregnant, the exam will need to be postponed. If you are uncertain, a blood test will be required to confirm you are not pregnant prior to starting the exam. This may delay or postpone your appointment if not obtained in advance.
  • It’s important to keep hydrated. You can eat and drink normally, both before the exam and between part one and part two of your appointment.
  • Please let your technologist know if you are claustrophobic prior to your exam.
  • This is a two-part appointment booked on the same day.
  • During part one, we will inject a radioactive material (radiopharmaceutical) into a vein in your arm. Part one will take approximately 10-15 minutes and you may leave the clinic until the time you are scheduled to return for part two. You will be given a specific return time.
  • For part two, you will be asked to return to the clinic about 2-4 hours from the time the injection was administered in part one. Part two will take approximately 45 minutes.
  • Please arrive 15 minutes before each part of your appointment to allow enough time to check in with reception.
  • Bring photo identification, your provincial health card, and your requisition.
  • Wear comfortable clothes.
  • Please do not bring children who require supervision.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

  • This is a two-part appointment booked on the same day.
  • The first part of your appointment will take approximately 15 minutes.
  • During part one, we will inject a radioactive material (radiopharmaceutical) into a vein in your arm.
  • Your technologist may take a few images while injecting, or immediately following the injection of, the radiopharmaceutical.
  • For the images, you will be asked to lie on your back on the imaging bed and the gamma camera will be placed over your body.
  • After the injection, the technologist will remind you to drink fluids (e.g., water, juice, pop, coffee, or tea) to make sure you are hydrated. You can urinate as needed, since this can help with the appearance of the images. Urinating is also an important way for your body to remove the radiopharmaceutical.
  • You are free to go about your daily activities in the waiting period between the first and second parts of your appointment; there are no restrictions. This time is needed for the injected radiopharmaceutical to attach to your bones.
  • The second part of your appointment is usually 2-4 hours after part one. Your technologist will let you know when to return.
  • During part two, there is no injection; only imaging will be performed. This will take approximately 45 minutes.
  • During the imaging, please hold as still as you can. You may breathe normally, but movement can blur the images and make them more difficult to interpret. Please let your technologist know if you are not comfortably positioned on the bed. Any necessary SPECT/CT imaging will be performed towards the end of this appointment.
  • The scan is painless and you will be able to talk to your technologist throughout the procedure.

POST-EXAM INSTRUCTIONS

  • Additional X-rays may be performed to help the radiologist with their interpretation of your bone scan. If this is required, they will be done after the bone scan is finished and may take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
  • The radiopharmaceutical is excreted from the body through your urine. Keeping hydrated and voiding frequently will help eliminate it from your body.

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

We do our best to have the specialized nuclear medicine physician interpret the data and forward the results to your doctor by the next business day. If there is any additional urgency, please inform our team. Please consult with your doctor regarding your results and any follow up exams or questions.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

This exam is covered under your Alberta Health Care Plan. It is not currently offered at our Saskatchewan clinics.

PLEASE NOTE:

Please bring the following to your appointment: a valid government-issued ID, your provincial health card, and your exam requisition (if you have received one).

FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

Please ensure that you bring your requisition with you to your appointment.

DURATION

Part 1: 15 minutes
Part 2: 45 minutes
*Two-part appt., imaging booked 2-4 hours apart

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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Radiologist

Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.

Administration

Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.

Diagnostic Imaging Assistant

Diagnostic Imaging Assistant (DIA) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.

Patient Experience Coordinator

Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.

CT Technologist

Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.

MRI Technologist

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.

Medical Radiation Technologist

Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care.  They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.

Our Culture

We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:

  • We recognize each other for our contributions – big and small.
  • We focus on teamwork and personal accountability to achieve our goals.
  • When we commit to deadlines, we complete the work as promised, by when we promised. If we realize we can’t keep our commitments, we collaborate to find new deadlines well in advance of the original ones.
  • We feel safe to speak up responsibly. That means we freely share what’s on our minds in a way that is respectful and supports the success of the organization.
  • We commit to our patients and their needs. We show up each day ready to live our vision, mission, and values.
  • We challenge each other to grow and develop our skills and we support each other to do so.
  • Above all, we go the extra mile to support our patients and colleagues. 

Our Values.

Our core values shape the way we work with patients, partners, and fellow employees. And, more than anything else, they’re what set Mayfair apart. In everything we do, this is what we strive for:

EXCELLENCE

We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.

CURIOSITY

We innovate in everything, from services to processes. We believe meaningful change and effective problem solving come only by looking at challenges and opportunities from new angles and by exercising our creativity and curiosity.

PASSION

We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.

COLLABORATION

Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.

SERVICE

We take pride in delivering exceptional service every day. We listen to every request with an open mind, always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond to create memorable, personalized experiences. We take responsibility to answer our referrers’ and patients’ requests and respect their time by always responding with a sense of urgency.

Start with us.

Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.

Operating clinics in Calgary and surrounding areas, Regina, and Saskatoon, our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff collaborate seamlessly to deliver high quality patient care. Working here is more than just a job; it’s a strong step towards your future.

OUR TEAMS

We are a dedicated group of professionals who combine skill with compassion to deliver attentive care to our patients. As a reliable partner in their health care journey, we provide high-quality imaging that assists patients, physicians, and other providers in making informed health decisions. Our work goes beyond imaging; it’s about fostering relationships and positively impacting everyone we serve.

OUR VISION

We envision a world where every person has clarity about their health. We innovate and welcome change, promoting leadership and creativity through safe risk-taking. We share best practices, earn peer recognition for our work, and engage top talent to reach our goals.

We strive to be thought leaders and encourage creativity by providing a safe place for calculated risk taking.

We share best practices across our operations and are recognized by our peers for our work. We engage the best to help propel us forward in achieving our goals.